This is Zack Starr's story:
Life is a series of chapters, and for many of us, the journey is filled with unexpected twists and turns. My journey truly began with an injury in the military and subsequent malpractice by the VA. In the military, you don't get to choose your doctors; you get what you're given and are expected to accept it without complaint. Unfortunately, this led to lifelong injuries that resurfaced a decade later, just as I was reaching the peak of my entrepreneurial and acting career.
When the screws implanted in my right shoulder came loose due to improper placement, the VA misdiagnosed the issue for an entire day. This small oversight had massive consequences, bringing my business to a screeching halt. I couldn't keep up with my clients, I was placed on numerous medications, and I had to endure two surgeries over the next two years. During this period, I lost my sense of identity, and the depression that followed led me to the brink of suicide—twice.
You would think that reaching such a low point would be a turning point toward permanent recovery, but life doesn't always work that way. I attempted to reintegrate into the corporate world, securing three promotions in an industry that typically doesn't accept non-college graduates. However, a life-altering moment occurred when my father suffered a stroke. I found myself juggling trivial work responsibilities while sitting by his bedside in the ER. In that moment, I realized that I needed to redefine my life's priorities.
I left my salaried job and returned to my entrepreneurial journey, leading me through multiple awakening chapters. One of the most pivotal moments was preparing for my fifth surgery while longing to return to my roots as an outdoorsman. I set my sights on hiking the 220-mile John Muir Trail. However, my doctor warned me against it, suggesting I should give up hiking altogether. Instead of listening, I set my sights even higher—tackling the 2,650-mile Pacific Crest Trail.
I embarked on a five-month journey, living out of a tent, facing my physical limitations head-on, and redefining what I was capable of. That journey didn't just challenge me physically; it forced me to confront my inner demons and find a deeper sense of purpose. It was during this time that I truly connected with my faith and realized that my past experiences didn't define me—they shaped me into who I am today.
Another turning point came when I met my wife shortly after my deep personal exploration. I was upfront with her about my struggles and aspirations, and she stood by me through subsequent surgeries and mental health battles. Our relationship taught me the importance of communication, vulnerability, and support—lessons that I now share with fellow veterans and their families.
The veteran experience is often marked by a profound sense of loss upon leaving the service—loss of community, routine, accountability, and purpose. I refer to this as losing our "CRAP" (Community, Routine, Accountability, Purpose). Rebuilding these elements is crucial to thriving in post-military life. I've developed the "THRIVE" framework to help veterans and others facing major life transitions:
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Team: Surround yourself with supportive people.
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Habits: Establish daily routines that promote growth.
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Resilience: Remember past challenges to overcome new ones.
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Investment: Commit to self-improvement and relationships.
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Vision: Create a clear path forward.
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Engagement: Actively participate in your journey.
The journey of healing and reinvention is ongoing. I've learned that we are never alone, even in our darkest moments. Whether you're a veteran, facing job loss, or navigating a major life transition, resilience, support, and purpose can guide you to a better future.
To those who are struggling: give yourself grace, seek out your community, and remember that every chapter brings an opportunity for growth and reinvention.
